Section: Breast Curriculum: Curriculum, page 9
Definition
- Fixed failure of typical nipple protrusion
Incidence
- Common: 3-9%
- Major retraction can occur in early 50s & bilateral in 15%
Aetiology
- Congenital (20%)
- Duct ectasia of breast, fibrocystic change (with inflammation around nipple)
- Previous surgery, fat necrosis
- Cancer (typically develops over a short period)
Clinical
- Fixed nipple retraction is more likely to be associated with Breast Ca
- Congenital – usually is able to come out
- Ix: Triple assessment for new/acquired nipple retraction / inversion
- Mammogram & retroareolar USS
- If associated with a mass, then biopsy is indicated
Management
- If no mass & no suspicion on imaging → reassurance & observation